This very rare series of Japanese paintings depicts everyday artisans in feudal Japan. Extensive commentary provides insight into the historical and cultural context of the scenes.More than three centuries ago; not long after Japan had entered the period of seclusion decreed by her Tokugawa rulers; an unknown artist; or perhaps a group of artists; painted a series of pictures for an album portraying contemporary trades and crafts. In creating the scenes that compose this rare relic from Tokugawa days; the anonymous painter left for later ages an invaluable record of everyday human activity in the utilitarian arts for which Japan has long been famous. It is these pictures; carefully reproduced in collotype and color and accompanied by Eric Kaemmerers perceptive comments; that make up the present volume.These scenes of Japanese life in the early 17th century introduce a variety of craftsmen ranging from needlemaker to swordsmith; from fanmaker to carpenter; from the creator of fragile lacquer ware to the fashioner of sturdy barrels. Their trades and crafts; many of which are still carried on with little change in present-day Japan; are portrayed with painstaking attention to detail and with a decided feeling for human interest.
#2242516 in eBooks 2013-07-26 2013-07-26File Name: B00EA50R4K
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. crisp; clear; and concise guide to Puccinis masterpiece !!!By CustomerAs more and more people today have recently turned to opera as a cathartic release for their emotions and their technology overloaded minds; short fluidly written guides like this one will be very much needed and appreciated. Everything that the reader wants is here inside this neat little book; without pretence. This work is obviously the result of love; but also of deep and thoughtful understanding.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy dlbndrWell written and explains the opera in simple layman terms.